Rumours that the pop star would be joining the judging panel have been doing the rounds for months. Simon Cowell said in February: “If she [Britney Spears] was available I’d take her in a heartbeat.
“She’s one of the most talked-about people in the world today.”
Earlier reports claimed that Spears had been offered $10m, but several sources said the Baby One More Time singer demanded $20m.
The first series of US X factor returned disappointing viewing figures and led to the departure of judges Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger – even though the latter had controversially replaced Cheryl Cole – and host Steve Jones.
Cowell will be looking to bring the second series back with a bang, and Spears could be the key.
According to industry website thewrap.com, Spears would be paid $13m for her judging skills and $2m for a bonus performance on the show.
Cowell has said the next series of US X Factor will feature just two judges and will be “different, better and more controversial” than the first go-round.
If Spears does bring her X factor to the show for $15m, she’ll reignite the long-standing rivalry with fellow pop minx Christina Aguilera, who earns a mere $10m for The Voice.
Picture: Getty
